Alex
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8

Marcie’s yard is full of people she doesn’t even know. Most of them are hockey players like her son, Alex – well, maybe a few years older … just old enough to know how to use hammers and to volunteer their time.

They responded to a call from Make-A-Wish® to grant Alex’s wish to have a backyard hockey rink with artificial ice. Local businesses also offered discounts on materials, and Betty Crocker® sponsored the wish as part of its national Stirring Up Wishes 12 Wishes in 12 Weeks campaign.

Alex’s treatment changed nearly everything about him. Before his diagnosis, his upbeat chatter never stopped. He joked incessantly. He rolled out a steady stream of play-by-play commentary at the rink. Then his spirits plummeted along with his energy.

But the old Alex is back as the volunteers finish his 24-by-48-foot rink. He glides onto the ice on sharpened skates, takes a few strides and lofts a puck into the net. As he skates, the volunteers who granted his wish see what was possible with a few hours of their time. They see how they changed Alex’s life - and gave an amazing gift to his entire family.

It feels like a miracle. Alex is getting a second chance at life … and we get a second chance to be with him.
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